Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame facts for kids
![]() |
|
Established | 1997 |
---|---|
Location | 2515 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, TX 76164 |
Type | Hall of fame |


The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame is a super cool museum in Fort Worth, Texas. It celebrates amazing men and women who are excellent at rodeo and living the western way of life in Texas. It's a place where you can learn all about the history of cowboys and cowgirls.
The Hall of Fame has over 125 cowboys and cowgirls honored there. Each person has their own special display booth. These booths show off their personal items and memories. The museum is located in a historic building called Barn A.
Inside the museum, you can also find other interesting exhibits. These include The Sterquell Wagon Collection, which has old wagons. There's also the John Justin Trail of Fame and the Chisholm Trail Exhibit. You can see The Applewhite-Clark Exhibit and learn about the Adventures of the Cowboy Trail. Don't miss the Zigrang Horse Bit Collection and Amon G. Carter's 1933 Cadillac. You can even take an old-time photo at The Jersey Lilly Old-Tyme Photo Parlour!
A Look at the Museum's History
The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame started in 1997. Its first goal was to honor great horsemen and horsewomen. In 2001, the Hall of Fame moved to the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Today, it celebrates people from all parts of rodeo and the western lifestyle.
The building itself has a long history. It was one of the horse and mule barns in the Fort Worth Stockyards. These barns were first built in 1888. They used to hold more than 3,000 horses and mules! The original wooden barns burned down on March 14, 1911. A spark from a passing train caused the fire.
The barns were rebuilt and finished in March 1912. They were even designed to be "fireproof" this time. Many parts of the building are still original. This includes the bricks, columns, metal doors, catwalks, and cinder blocks. The Hall of Fame is right in the middle of the historic Fort Worth Stockyards.
Honoring Rodeo Legends
The Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame honors many famous people. These are individuals who have made a big impact on rodeo and western culture. They are called "inductees." Each year, new people are added to this special group.
Some of the famous inductees include rodeo champions and even musicians. For example, Willie Nelson and George Strait are honored here. Other well-known names include Nolan Ryan, Lyle Lovett, Taylor Sheridan, Cody Johnson, Moe Bandy, and Ray Benson. These people are recognized for their amazing skills and contributions.